IMPACT OF PIGMENTS ON THE HEALTH OF Punica Granatum L.

Abstract

The pomegranate, scientifically known as Punica granatum L., is an intriguing fruit due to its nutritional makeup, which includes a high chlorophyll concentration, flavor, and cultural importance. Chlorophyll levels in leaves ensure that the plant can efficiently produce carbohydrates that can be transported to developing fruits. Also, a decrease in chlorophyll levels can directly affect the growth of pomegranate due to a reduced photosynthetic rate. In this research effect of the content of leaf pigments on different varieties (Healthy and Cracked fruits) of pomegranate from the same cultivar, Bhagwa, was determined. Two distinct seasons were selected for sample collection, one with the initial developing stage of fruits and the second where fruits were in the harvest stage. The analysis revealed that leaf pigment levels at the initial development stage were almost identical in healthy and cracked fruit. Still, as the development of fruit starts, and when it reaches the fully developed stage, the pigment levels in all extracting solvents in leaves of the plant-bearing cracked fruit decreased when compared with healthy fruit. So, parameters leading to a decrease in chlorophyll content need to be evaluated, and protection methods should be implemented at appropriate times to reduce cracking and overall growth of pomegranate.